Does Brevard Need Osceola's Water? Yes

May 25, 1986

South Brevard County's principal source of water -- Lake Washington -- is unreliable. And the need for a new source of water is highlighted by conflicts between protecting the environment of the St. Johns River marsh while maintaining the lake as a water supply.

At the South Brevard Water Authority, it is our job to develop a safe, long-term water supply. To meet this responsibility while protecting Florida's environment, the authority is pursuing conservation, reuse and a new source of water.

Water supply options in east Central Florida are limited. Florida's flat topography makes large reservoirs of surface water impractical. Groundwater is found in two systems: the shallow sand aquifer and the deeper limestone rock of the Floridan aquifer. The shallow aquifer produces little water and is easily contaminated.

The Floridan aquifer can produce a great deal of water. Unfortunately, in Brevard County it is salty, requiring desalination to be potable. Desalination requires 75 percent more energy than other options considered. In addition, increased water use along the coast will result in saltwater intrusion.

The only option left to Brevard County is to use the Floridan aquifer inland where fresh water exists. Under provisions of a 1972 state law, Brevard County can do so with the approval of the St. Johns River Water Management District.

Unfortunately, though, Osceola County is concerned that it might be slighted because over half of the water in Lake Washington comes from that portion of the lake's watershed in Osceola.

Still, it should be remembered that the South Brevard Water Authority has agreed to provide water only as allowed by Osceola County's Comprehensive Plan.

A squabble could lead to wasting taxpayers' dollars on high-priced lawyers and lobbyists. With both counties working together, water can be provided to those areas where it is needed.